5 ways to avoid hay fever

If you are one of the estimated 10 million people in the UK who have hayfever1, you will recognise the familiar itchy eyes, runny nose and tickly throat that occur leading up to and during the spring and summer months.

LloydsPharmacy’s allergy expert shares top five tips for to help you avoid hayfever:

It sounds obvious, but to minimise your contact with pollen, try to keep doors and windows closed, particularly when the pollen count is high in the early morning and early evening. Vacuuming regularly, showering after being outside and avoiding drying clothes outside can also help to reduce the amount of pollen you are exposed to.

Wear wraparound sunglasses when you are outdoors to help keep pollen out of your eyes. This will help to reduce itchiness.

Rub a small amount of Vaseline into your lower nostrils – this may seem strange but it can help to stop pollen spores entering your nasal passages.

Keep car windows closed when driving – pollen filters can also be fitted to your car’s air vents to reduce the impact of pollen spores.

If hay fever symptoms still remain despite following the above steps, visit your pharmacist to get appropriate treatment. If you are already taking medication for hayfever, remember to take it regularly to minimise any hayfever symptoms throughout the season.